What functionality does a TV tuner card provide to a computer?

A TV tuner card provides the functionality to receive and view television signals on a computer. This hardware component allows a computer to function like a television by decoding the signal from various sources, such as over-the-air broadcast signals, cable, or satellite. Once the signal is received, the tuner card can process and display the television content directly on the computer's monitor, enabling users to watch live TV, pause broadcasts, and often access various channels through software interfaces.

In addition to viewing the signals, many TV tuner cards also include features for recording live television, which adds significant functionality beyond just viewing. This makes a TV tuner card an essential component for anyone looking to integrate television viewing into their computer system.